People in London Will Live in These Classic, Anti-Trend Outfits This Season

Like anywhere else in the world, London has its own identity which infiltrates into everything, from its food to its music scene. Of course, this is Who What Wear UK, so what we're most interested in is the fashion and how the capital influences the wardrobes of its inhabitants (many of whom, I might add, are very chic indeed).

Walk down any London street and you'll see a broad spectrum of outfits, which is one thing that makes London culture so rich—it's unique and varied, which is something we should always celebrate. However, there are those pieces that feel more intrinsically "London" than others, and whilst some might sound cliché, there is merit in many of them. These are items I see regularly when I'm in the city, worn by women who absolutely know how to put together an elevated outfit.

When these city staples come together they create classic London outfits - looks that encapsulate the Brit capital's essence. As someone who always wants to dress more timelessly, I've assembled seven elegant looks that feel so London, but would also look chic no matter where you live. Forming a capsule wardrobe of sorts, scroll on to see the classic London outfits that caught my eye.

7 Classic London Outfits to Re-Create in 2025:

1. Blouse + Jeans + Fisherman Sandals

Style Notes: Outfit combinations don't get more classic "London" than this look. Comprising a relaxed-fit blouse (more often than not, white), a pair of timeless white, straight-leg jeans and fisherman sandals—the London-girl footwear of choice. This is an ensemble I see countless times a day on the streets of the capital, yet somehow, it never loses its appeal.

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2. T-Shirt + Maxi Skirt + Leather Flats

Style Notes: If it wasn't already clear, ease is at the heart of many a classic London outfit. However, this look is less about the separate items themselves and more about their colour. With the risk of getting your clothes mucky on your commute, I see more all-black outfits in London than anywhere else, and not just in the form of summer dresses. Alexis Foreman's combination of a black relaxed tee, maxi skirt with a pop of colour in the form of a red handbag (pictured above) feels fresh, current and classic all at once.

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3. Knitted Vest + Linen Trousers + Flip-Flops

Style Notes: The knitted vest is another item loaded with British heritage, having been invented right here in the 1600s. Of course, you'll see them worn all over Europe and beyond, but although we might not always have the weather for them, linen trousers are a staple in the wardrobes of many London women. More likely to be found styled with flats rather than spindly heels these days, Michelle Lin's ensemble (above), complete with a raffia bag, perfectly demonstrates how to style them the London way.

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4. Waistcoat + Shorts + Heeled Sandals

Style Notes: Perhaps it has something to do with the heritage of Savile Row, but London style has long been synonymous with tailoring. In summer, swap out the wool blazers for lighter-weight alternatives like waistcoats, and boots for strappy sandals.

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5. Maxi Dress + Basket Tote + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: By now you were probably thinking I had made the gravest of oversights in failing to mention a black dress of any kind, but rest assured, its influence is still very much felt in London, and I can't imagine that ever not being the case. This is largely because it's easy to throw on when you don't know what to wear. Utterly timeless and elegant, it'll serve you well in your capsule, whether you live in London or elsewhere. Pairing it with ballet flats and a basket bag only makes the piece feel more chic.

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6. Barn Jacket + Capri Pants + Mesh Flats

Style Notes: The barn jacket is deeply rooted in British fashion and has been adopted by many people and aesthetics along the way. It's a staple amongst the London style set, who wear theirs with everything from capri leggings to tailoring, skirts to dresses. Look for elongated shapes for modern appeal and finish with mesh flats to nail the cool girl aesthetic.

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7. Oxford Shirt + Slip Skirt + Sunglasses

Style Notes: Is there anything that says "London fashion" more than an Oxford shirt? Whether it be for work, casual days out or dressed up for more formal events, a button-down can be spotted everywhere in the city. This season, fashion people will be pairing their iterations with slinky slip skirts for a chic off-duty look that can be effortlessly taken from the office to a casual day out.

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